I was on a call today about a writing assignment. The client was going to take the draft I presented and “socialize” it with the team. He must have needed to ensure they were “aligned.
” I’m glad I don’t speak up every time someone says something that makes my head cock to the side like a dog when you say, “Who’s a good dog?” It made me think it’s time to circle back on some words that you, the readers, have reached out to tell me you despise. A deep dive into your submissions is low-hanging fruit. You’re writing this column for me.
That’s a game changer and a win-win since you get to air your grievances in public and, at the end of the day, I get to put my feet up early. No need for me to boil the ocean here. I’ll start with a phrase that’s really gaining popularity.
“In real time.” I’ve heard this in the context of news and sports, such as during coverage of the recent NHL trade deadline. With lots of activity for team management, they had to deal with issues and make decisions quickly.
Or, if you’re a broadcaster trying to sound smart, they’re making these decisions, “in real time.” As opposed to..
. what? Are we normally able to pause time, rewind or fast forward and manage the world on our own schedules? Instead of doing things “in real time” could we just do them quickly..
. or instantly..
. or without delay..
. or immediately. Longtime reader Beverly gets upset, probably in real time, when she hears the phrase, “Make no mistak.